Because your users are not primarily technical, avoiding any techie description is important ( and because they are senior business people, it can make them feel uncomfortable, and so start them off with a negative perspective ).

Personally, I like test drive. They will be used to the concept, and ( if they regularly buy new cars ) will probably be excited by the prospect. TBH, if they are male, it will probably appeal!

So a) go with a totally non-techie term and b) make it sound like the experience will be enjoyable.

Here we often use "prototype" or "preview". Both terms are routinely used in non-technical contexts and have been received very well around my office. You can throw in "interactive" in there for good measure.

I can think of a lot of users, and even some technical people, who would be confused by seeing the technical term "beta" being used in this context. I think other posters are right in saying the best choices in this instance are non-technical.
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gef05Sep 29 '11 at 13:15

1

Also, "Beta" to me does not imply "demo"; rather, it makes a statement about the readiness of the application for release into the market—whatever the scope or limit of its functionality may be.
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EvanSep 29 '11 at 16:56